Attacks on Chapter 9s ‘undermine democracy’

Yadhana Jadoo

Former public protector Thuli Madonsela . Picture: Gallo Images

Attacks on Chapter 9 institutions in South Africa undermine our hard-won democracy, including the role of bodies such as the public protector’s office, says SA Human Rights Commission chairperson and previous public protector, Lawrence Mushwana.

Chairperson and previous public protector, Lawrence Mushwana. was commenting on a recent spate of attacks on advocate Thuli Madonsela’s office.

“I was there when these laws were made in parliament. We were all passionate, we wanted that institution,” he said.

“Government cannot establish us and when we do our work, some of those who must respect that role, will come in and vilify you.”

Mushwana said society should see the public protector as “the defender of their rights”.

“But when they see that we are being vilified, they don’t see us as a champion. What do they do? They … continue … their service delivery protests, which unfortunately, at times, turn … violent.